Ron MacLean - 2019 G.H. Dawe Memorial Award of Excellence

Ron MacLean is a proud Red Deerian, and for his on-going and passionate role as an ambassador for this region, we’re proud to honour him with the 2019 G.H. Dawe Memorial Award. Throughout his decadeslong career as a sportscaster, MacLean has been a vocal supporter of this region, and a proud central Albertan. He has promoted our local athletes and supported the continued success of our athletic programs and teams.

MacLean grew up in Red Deer. He and his wife, Cari, met in high school and have been together since. Cari MacLean completed the Bachelor of Recreation Administration through the RDC – University of Alberta transfer program.

When she moved to Edmonton to complete her degree, Ron remained in Red Deer, working his way up at CKRD-FM, CKRD-AM and eventually, CKRD-TV. His hard work and dedication have paid off as he has enjoyed more than 30 years with Hockey Night in Canada. MacLean’s authenticity, commitment and expertise have endeared him to Canadians and hockey fans around the globe.

MacLean’s roots remain in Red Deer. The friendships he made growing up in central Alberta remain important connections for him and his family. He continues to emphasize the level of athletes our region produces and to promote investment in sport and sporting events for central Alberta.

As honorary co-chairs of the 2019 Canada Winter Games, the MacLeans returned to Red Deer to support and promote the Games, meet volunteers and visit the venues and community spaces that served the Games, and which Ron helped fundraise for.

It’s clear that no matter where Ron MacLean’s career takes him, he remains a Red Deerian at heart. RDC is proud to honour him for bridging central Alberta to the world through leadership, good citizenship and a commitment to community.

The G.H. Dawe Memorial Award is presented by RDC to a community member who best exemplifies the values of Mr. George Harold Dawe (1910- 1999).

The College community fondly remembers Mr. Dawe for his contributions to this institution and to education in general. Mr. Dawe helped establish Red Deer College in 1963 and held the position of its first administrative officer. His commitment and dedication to education was outstanding and will serve as a model of lifelong learning for decades to come.

Through dedicated service, the recipients of the G.H. Dawe Memorial Award have helped advance the mission of Red Deer College and bridge the College to the central Alberta community.

For more information, visit rdc.ab.ca/communityawards.